How to tell if they are setting it up in 2 seconds or less

For someone to impose their will on you, they have to get close to you. There are only 3 possible ways they can achieve this:

1. They approach you

2. You approach them

3. They use the environment to get closer to you (they hide in doorways, behind delivery trucks)

We’ll focus on 1 and 2 for now. Criminals are cunning; They won’t come out and yell “Stick em up.” They know how to play with your sympathy and good nature to get closer to you. They will be extremely persuasive and lure you to places that compromise your safety. Like predators, they will try to separate you from the ears. One of the ways they will distract you is by asking for directions, the weather, spare change, anything else that will occupy your hands, and most importantly, your attention.

So how do you know if someone is asking for directions or trying to set you up?

Easy, just say “I don’t know” and move on. If they keep pushing you, there’s your answer. What more could they want? Hey, you don’t have to be rude, be polite, but KEEP MOVING. If they follow you, then they really didn’t need instructions in the first place.

If you choose to answer them, you are now going to be in trouble. While you give them directions, the time, a game or whatever, their “partner” assaults you from behind. Then it’s over and there is no martial art or self defense system in the world to help you.

I know we don’t like to think that, but facts are facts. Prevent the assault before it happens, avoid it for your best chance, and strike first for your only chance.